What is the primary purpose of chest compressions in CPR?

The primary purpose of chest compressions in CPR is to create blood flow to the heart and vital organs. During cardiac arrest, the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, which deprives the body of oxygen and essential nutrients. Chest compressions apply rhythmic pressure to the chest wall, which helps to manually pump blood through the heart and into the circulatory system. This circulation is crucial for maintaining blood flow to the brain and other vital organs until advanced medical help arrives or normal heart function is restored.

While providing oxygen to the victim is important, it is primarily the role of rescue breaths rather than chest compressions. Resetting the victim's heart rhythm typically involves the use of defibrillation, which is a separate intervention. Monitoring vital signs is important in the overall management of a patient but is not a primary function of chest compressions during CPR. Hence, creating blood flow to the heart is the main goal, ensuring that the body continues to receive some level of circulation during a critical emergency.